Panel Materials
7.50 sq ft
Border
10.0 ft
Technique
Copper Foil
| Material | Common Sizes | Usage Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Copper Foil | 7/32", 1/4", 5/16" | Choose width based on glass thickness |
| H-Came | 3/16", 1/4", 3/8" | Channel width matches glass thickness |
| U-Came (Border) | 3/16", 1/4", 3/8" | Zinc or brass for panel edges |
| 60/40 Solder | 1 lb spool | For copper foil technique |
| 50/50 Solder | 1 lb spool | For lead came technique |
| Art Glass | 12" x 12" sheets | Standard sheet size, various colors |
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Inputs
Result
Panel area: 8 × 10 = 80 sq in = 0.56 sq ft. With 20% waste: 0.67 sq ft. Border: 2(8 + 10) = 36 in = 3 ft.
Inputs
Result
Panel area: 18 × 24 = 432 sq in = 3 sq ft. With 25% waste for moderate complexity: 3.75 sq ft. Border: 2(18 + 24) = 84 in + 10% = 7.7 ft.
Use this page as a project-planning tool for panel size, glass area, average piece density, and broad material setup. It is best for deciding whether a layout is small, medium, or material-heavy before you calculate exact joining supplies.
Move on from this page when you need exact seam footage, joining supply weight, flux, internal came footage, stick counts, or reinforcement planning. This page is intentionally broader and earlier in the workflow.
| Feature | Layout Planner | Solder Calc | Lead Came Calc |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stage | Planning | Assembly | Assembly |
| Key output | Sq ft of glass | Oz of solder | Feet of came |
| Best for | Budgeting, sizing | Copper foil builds | Lead came builds |
A simple starting point is the panel perimeter: two widths plus two heights. Then add a little extra for trimming, corners, and mistakes if you are ordering rigid zinc or brass border came.
Plan for 15–25% waste depending on piece complexity and your skill level. Intricate curved cuts waste more glass than simple geometric shapes.
| Glass Type | Cost per sq ft | Typical Waste | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cathedral | $4–$8 | 15–20% | Backgrounds, simple panels |
| Opalescent | $8–$15 | 20–25% | Featured pieces, flowers |
| Textured | $10–$20 | 20–30% | Accent pieces, water effects |
| Dichroic | $25–$50 | 15–20% | Jewelry, small accents |
Explore stained glass, lead came, solder, and pottery planning tools.
Last Updated: Mar 26, 2026
This calculator is provided for informational and educational purposes only. Results are estimates and should not be considered professional financial, medical, legal, or other advice. Always consult a qualified professional before making important decisions. UseCalcPro is not responsible for any actions taken based on calculator results.